By Michael Staenberg
• Published December 31, 2020
My father, Marty Staenberg, was a role model and inspiration. He taught me to work hard for what I wanted and never to forget that no matter what I earn, part of it should go to tzedakah, to helping others. It is a lesson that has served me well throughout...
In Ancient Greece, the word “idiot” referred to an individual who took no interest in public affairs, in the life of the polis. America has long been populated by idiots, folks who not only are disengaged from politics but are ignorant about it as...
(JTA) — Many of my fellow rabbinical students and friends are enthusiastic about a new strategy for elevating women’s voices in Torah study into the beit midrash this fall.
The Kranjec Test — named for Danielle Kranjec, the Jewish educator...
By Robert A. Cohn, Editor-in-Chief Emeritus
• Published December 17, 2020
Having turned 81 in September during the lethal COVID-19 pandemic, and facing the challenges of aging and losing loved ones more frequently, I’m reluctant to glance at the “In Memoriam” lists from University City High School, Washington University...
By Jonathan S. Tobin, JNS
• Published December 17, 2020
The news was greeted with jubilation by friends of Israel and the approximately 1 million Israelis who trace their roots back to Morocco. An agreement announced last week by the White House made Morocco the fourth Muslim country in the last few months...
Election results this year show the deep socio-political divide among demographics and identities. Regardless of the outcome each of us desired, this is not a proud moment. The United States continues to be deeply divided, and it is apparent in election...
Seeking in-person services? We’re openRegarding “Congregations adapt to COVID-19 for High Holy Days,” (Nov. 18), I want to let the community know that Traditional Congregation has been open for services since August 1, including Rosh Hashanah and...
Appreciation for original Holocaust Museum foundersYour coverage of the Holocaust Museum groundbreaking (Nov. 18 edition) was appreciated. My family and I would like to clarify some important points. The museum is dedicated in honor of the survivors and...
Temple Israel students who began college this year have a special nickname for themselves. It doesn’t have to do with COVID-19 or with their time in confirmation class or shared experiences during their b’nai mitzvah year. They call themselves “Miss...
For Jews, grappling with the physical and spiritual presence of Israel is not optional. Why is this relationship crucial? Israel is part of an unbreakable, interdependent triad that includes God and Torah. All Jews are the Children of Israel. We are...
Robert A. Cohn, Editor-in-Chief Emeritus
• Published December 3, 2020
This feature is dedicated to the memory of Melvin L. Newmark, St. Louis attorney and Jewish community leader, who served as president of the Jewish Light Board of Trustees from l969-l972. In his memory, Mr. Newmark’s family and friends established...
By Amy Fenster Brown
• Published November 19, 2020
Thank you. I’m thankful for you reading my essays month after month. What a coincidence that here I am, publicly thankful, and it happens to be Thanksgiving. We can each make a list, from the serious to the silly, as a reminder of positivity during...
